Today, the premises of the Public Open University Čakovec (POU Čakovec) have been adorned with a new, magnificent artistic appearance. On the first floor of our building, the “Zodiac” mural—an impressive interpretation of a masterpiece by the Art Nouveau master Alphonse Mucha—was ceremonially unveiled.
This large-scale mural (3.5 x 4 meters) was masterfully executed by the academic painter Rusa Trajkova. However, this work is not merely an aesthetic addition to the interior; it symbolically connects history, education, and culture—the three pillars upon which the work of our University rests.
The Symbolism of Time and the Calendar
The timing of the mural’s unveiling was not chosen by chance. Since “Zodiac” was originally conceived as a calendar, its presentation at the turn of the year carries strong symbolism regarding the passage of time, as well as the permanence of artistic values. The mural will welcome our students and visitors daily, reminding them of the importance of art in everyday life.
A Historical Note: Čakovec in the Era of Prusc
The ceremony was enriched with an educational historical context provided by Maša Hrustek Sobočan, Director of the Museum of Međimurje Čakovec. She took the audience back to an era when horse-drawn carriages and the first automobiles mingled on the streets of Čakovec—a time of intense construction and urbanization of the city.
Special tribute was paid to the then-mayor Alojzije Prusc, a visionary under whose mandate Čakovec began to acquire its present-day urban character. The spirit of that time was revived through a costumed performance:
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The character of Alojzije Prusc was embodied by Goran Žižek.
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His wife, Matilda, was faithfully portrayed by the author of the mural herself, Rusa Trajkova.
It is worth noting that the historical costumes worn by the protagonists were created as part of a European project by the students of Gospodarska škola Čakovec, once again confirming the importance of inter-institutional cooperation.
City Support and Future Vision
Participating in the ceremonial act of unveiling were the Mayor of Čakovec, Ljerka Cividini, and the Director of POU Čakovec, Mario Zamuda.
On this occasion, Mayor Cividini expressed her satisfaction with the project and emphasized her desire to see similar works, which carry a strong historical and aesthetic background, in more spaces throughout the city, thereby making art accessible to everyone.
We extend our gratitude to the City of Čakovec, the Museum of Međimurje, Gospodarska škola Čakovec, and all participants who contributed to making our renovated building not just a place of learning, but a true small gallery. We believe that “Zodiac” will inspire generations of students to come.
